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Cell Therapy Process Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Design and execute experiments to develop robust manufacturing processes for cell therapy products and support programs in clinical development. * Develop robust, scalable media and bioreactor ...

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Cell Therapy Process Development information

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$18

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How much do cell therapy process development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cell therapy process development in the United States is $33.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.64 and $41.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cell Therapy Process Development professional, and why are they important?

To thrive in Cell Therapy Process Development, you need a solid background in cell biology, biotechnology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and experience with cell culture techniques. Familiarity with bioprocessing equipment, Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) regulations, and analytical tools such as flow cytometry and PCR is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork enhance performance in this collaborative and innovative environment. These competencies ensure the safe and efficient development of cell therapies, meeting rigorous quality standards and advancing clinical applications.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in Cell Therapy Process Development, and how are they addressed?

Professionals in Cell Therapy Process Development often encounter challenges such as scaling up production processes from laboratory to clinical or commercial scale while maintaining product quality and consistency. Additional hurdles include adhering to strict regulatory requirements and managing complex collaborations across cross-functional teams, like quality assurance, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing. These challenges are typically addressed through rigorous process optimization, thorough documentation, and ongoing communication with stakeholders to ensure that all aspects of the process meet industry standards and regulatory expectations.

What is the difference between Cell Therapy Process Development vs Cell Therapy Manufacturing Specialist?

AspectCell Therapy Process DevelopmentCell Therapy Manufacturing Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in biology, biochemistry, or biomedical engineering; certifications in GMP or cell therapy are commonSimilar credentials; often holds degrees in related fields and GMP certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, development facilities, early-stage process optimizationManufacturing plants, production floors, quality control labs
Industry UsageFocuses on developing and optimizing cell therapy processesInvolved in large-scale production and process execution

Cell Therapy Process Development professionals focus on designing and refining cell therapy procedures, while Cell Therapy Manufacturing Specialists handle the production and quality assurance in manufacturing settings. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications but differ mainly in their work environment and specific responsibilities.

What is Cell Therapy Process Development?

Cell Therapy Process Development refers to the design, optimization, and scaling up of manufacturing processes for cell-based therapies, such as CAR-T cells or stem cell products. Professionals in this field work on translating laboratory research into reproducible, efficient, and safe production methods that meet regulatory standards. This involves working with cell culture techniques, bioreactors, quality control, and process validation to ensure that therapies can be produced consistently for clinical and commercial use. The goal is to develop robust processes that deliver safe and effective cell therapies to patients.
Infographic showing various Cell Therapy Process Development job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,060 per year, or $33.7 per hour.
cGMP Process Development (PD) Specialized Laboratory Technician

cGMP Process Development (PD) Specialized Laboratory Technician

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$26.50 - $29.81/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


University Of Southern California rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

95th of 532 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown L.A. and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be a part of a world-class research university and a member of the "Trojan Family," which comprises the faculty, students and staff that make the university what it is.
USC's Keck School of Medicine, current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) facility is seeking a dynamic individual to work on the process development and manufacturing of cell and gene therapies and other biological products for internal/external users. The cGMP Process Development (PD) Specialized Lab Technician at the USC/CHLA cGMP Facility is responsible for supporting process development activities related to the scale-up and optimization of cell therapy processes. The role involves assisting in the execution of laboratory experiments, preparing equipment, performing routine testing, and collecting and documenting data for process optimization and development studies. The Process Development (PD) Specialized Lab Tech helps set up process development labs, maintains inventory, and ensures all equipment is calibrated and ready for use. Additionally, this role supports the technology transfer process from development to manufacturing and ensures compliance with cGMP guidelines.
Job Accountabilities
  • Performs moderate to complex laboratory procedures related to cell therapy development. Utilizes specialized techniques and technology to achieve results (e.g., media preparation, cell expansion, harvesting, cryopreservation, and cell culture) and conducts quality control testing to ensure product safety, purity, and compliance, utilizing methods such as sterility testing, endotoxin assessment, mycoplasma detection, and flow cytometry. Supports cGMP manufacturing activities by performing aseptic techniques in a fully gowned cleanroom environment. Assists in executing laboratory experiments related to process development (e.g., preparing, operating, cleaning equipment).
  • Performs routine quality control tests and assays on materials, products, and processes to ensure compliance with standards. Conducts environmental monitoring in cGMP cleanrooms (e.g., viable and non-viable particulate monitoring and surface sampling). Follows established SOPs and adheres to regulatory guidelines, ensuring compliance with cGMP and safety protocols. Maintains awareness of emerging laws, regulations, industry best practices, and advancements in cell therapy and cGMP manufacturing.
  • Prepares, calibrates, and maintains laboratory equipment for use. Participates in routine lab maintenance and ensures a clean, safe, and organized working environment across all departments. Monitors inventory of lab supplies and materials, ensuring sufficient stock for ongoing operations and timely ordering.
  • Collects, documents, and records data accurately, maintaining detailed and organized electronic records. Assists with technology transfer activities, ensuring smooth transition of processes between development and manufacturing. Supports process optimization efforts by gathering and analyzing data from experiments and production runs.
  • Stays up to date with the latest advancements, regulations, and best practices in cell therapy and cGMP manufacturing. Engages in professional development and training to enhance skills and ensure compliance with evolving industry standards.
  • Promotes an environment that fosters inclusive relationships and creates unbiased opportunities for contributions through ideas, words, and actions that uphold principles of the USC Code of Ethics.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The university reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

Successful Candidates Must Demonstrate:
Degree in a directly related specialized scientific field. Demonstrated knowledge of all aspects of biotechnology and cell therapy. Demonstrated passion for solving complex scientific issues. Experience with Food and Drug Administration regulations and clinical trials. Strong communication and writing skills with demonstrated ability to work as an individual contributor and in a dynamic team environment.
Salary Range:
The hourly rate range for this position is $26.50 - $29.81. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.
*This is a 3 year fixed-term position.
USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.
Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree in Biological Science And/Or Biotechnology
Minimum Experience: 2 years in cell therapy development
Preferred Education: Master's degree
Preferred Experience: 3 years in cell therapy development
Supervisory: May supervise student, temporary and/or resource workers.
Minimum Skills: Proficiency in operating and maintaining laboratory equipment used in cGMP manufacturing and quality control testing. Strong attention to detail and ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and quality assurance principles meticulously. Excellent communication and teamwork skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams. Ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues in a timely manner. Knowledge of regulatory requirements and guidelines (e.g., FDA, EMA) related to cGMP.
USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.
We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email at uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.
  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:
https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$125382.htmld

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About University of Southern California

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The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880